The U.S. House of Representatives on Thursday approved a significant tax and spending bill proposed by President Donald Trump. The legislation garnered 218 votes in favor, primarily from Republicans, with only two representatives voting against it. All 212 Democrats present voted in opposition. The Senate previously passed the bill on Tuesday, paving the way for President Trump to sign it into law.
The proposed law allocates hundreds of billions of dollars in additional funding for immigration authorities, border security initiatives and the military. Tax reductions, largely benefiting corporations and high-income earners, are intended to be offset by approximately $1 trillion in cuts to the state-run Medicaid healthcare program. Roughly 12 million individuals with disabilities or low incomes could face loss of their health insurance coverage as a result.
Further provisions within the bill include reductions in food stamp benefits. Plans also call for the closure of climate research stations and the elimination of certain incentives related to renewable energy development and electric vehicle purchases. Despite the planned savings, the legislation is projected to increase the national deficit by approximately $3.4 trillion over the next decade.
During the debate surrounding the bill, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries delivered a record-breaking nearly nine-hour speech in the House chamber. He characterized the legislation as immoral and reckless, arguing it would negatively impact vulnerable populations. “Everyone should vote no because it attacks children, seniors, average Americans and people with disabilities” Jeffries stated.
